PERSECUTION. Milton Martin

Transcription

1 PERSECUTION by Milton Martin

2 THE CHURCH FUNCTIONING Matthew 16:18 I. Christ Founded His Church and Commissioned Her to Carry On His Work. Matt. 16:18; 28: A. Traditional churches put emphasis on buildings, professionally-trained pastors, maintaining status, high-profile image, etc. B. Are we prepared to express our faith and worship in other manners and forms? C. The first Churches did not have Temples or buildings. D. When our buildings are closed, will this mean the end of our Christianity? II. The First Church Was Persecuted Severely! How Did They Respond? A. They met quietly in private homes. Acts. 5:42. B. Lay Christians faithfully shared their testimony. Acts 8:1,4. C. They took advantage of every opportunity to witness and testify. Acts 16:12,13. D. The taught informally (personal discipleship). Acts 11:25,26. E. They fellowshipped together while ministering. Acts 2:46,47. F. They worshipped under every circumstance and opportunity. Acts 16: III. Alternative Means of Worship, Fellowship and Witness Were Observed. A. House churches were the norm. Rom. 16:3-5; I Cor. 16:19. B. Persecuted Christians and Unregistered churches use birthdays, weddings and funerals as opportunities to meet as a body. C. Can you suggest some forms and ways? IV. Some Means That Satan Uses to Defeat Christians and Churches During Persecution. A. Satan uses isolation as a tool against churches. B. Satan uses guilt and offenses as a weapon against churches. 1. The Devil is the accuser of the brethren. 2. The accusations of Satan are continuous and never ending. 3. The evil one watchfully waits to pounce when sin has not been confessed. 4. Much care has to be taken to continually maintain communion and fellowship with the Lord. I John 1:9. 5. Personal offences not confronted become very serious and can grow into mountainous problems. 6. Satan does his best to cause Christians to carry false guilt after sin has been forgiven. Rom. 5:1,2; 8:33, Instead of doubting and asking why, say, Lord, what would you have me to do?

3 CHRISTIANS WILL SUFFER PERSECUTION I Peter 4:12-19 I. Promise of Suffering. I Pet. 2:21; 4:12; I Thess. 3:3,4; Acts 14:22; II Tim. 3:12. II. Purpose of Suffering. I Peter 4:12; Fiery trial. Job 23:10; Ps. 66:10. A. Proof of our faith. B. When something is professed, it is necessary to prove it s reality. C. Proof of the depth of our faith. 1. What will it take to move us or cause us to turn aside? 2. The importance or size of that which hinders reveals the strength of our faith. III. Participation With Christ In His Sufferings. I Pet. 4:13. Literally the Christian enters into the sufferings of Christ. It will not be the cross but it may be at the hands of men. A. The Lord was denied. John 1:10. B. The Lord was hated. John 15:24. C. The Lord left the house of His Father. John 3:16. D. The Lord did not have a house of His own. E. The Lord did not have the money even to pay His taxes. Matt 17:27. F. The Lord did not have a bed. G. The Lord had no one to defend Him when He was falsely accused. H. The Lord had no tomb. I. The Lord became poor. Phil. 3:10; I Pet. 4:1; Gal. 2:20; 6:12,17; Acts 5:41; Heb. 12:2; I Thess. 2:2; I Pet. 2:21. What will be our reaction? Heb. 12:2. IV. Power In Suffering or Through Suffering. I Peter 4:14 The Holy Spirit rests upon those who suffer. In the Old Testament a cloud was a symbol of the presence of God. This cloud was known as the glory of the Lord. I Kings 8:10,11. A similar glory comes on a believer by the Holy Spirit when he suffers for Christ. The Spirit comes to minister - to fill, to cover, to clothe, to enclose, to sustain, to help, to strengthen, to intercede, and to make up that which is lacking. Acts 6:5-8; 7:55,60. (This glory was seen in Stephen). II Cor. 12:9,10. (The darker the night, the brighter the stars). V. Dangers In Suffering. I Peter 4:14-16 A. There is a difference in suffering for Christ and suffering for one s own guilt or foolishness. B. Shame. Heb. 2:11; 11:16. C. Bitterness instead of joy and thanksgiving. Ex. 15:23,24; 16:2; I Thess. 5:18. VI. Purification Through Suffering. I Peter 4:17,18.

4 A. Suffering can be used to purify, purge, burn up dross, cause us to judge ourselves or cause us to deal with sin. Ezra 9:6. B. Before a church can truly reach out or enter into true ministry, it must be purified, pruned and refined. John 15:2 C. There is no power without purification. 1. Suffering in itself cannot refine or purify. 2. Only the Grace of God can produce refining and purification, but suffering can cause us to recognize our need. a. Suffering can help us understand that nothing can be done in our strength. b. Suffering can make us sensitive to sin. D. Through suffering we can learn to completely depend upon the Lord. II Cor. 12:9,10. E. How will we respond? I Peter 4:19; Acts 7:59; Luke 23:46.

5 THE PART OF SUFFERING IN THE LIFE OF THE BELIEVER Suffering is common to every person. Job 5:6,7. It is normal for a Christian to suffer as well. II Tim. 3:12; Acts 14:22; I Pet. 2:21. There are levels of persecution: pressure, humiliation, discrimination, threats, loss of material possessions or physical violence. I. Common Misconceptions. A. Suffering is punishment for some wrong or sin. I Peter 4:19; 3:14; 4:16. B. Thinking that one should never be sad. I Pet. 1:6. C. Thinking that only Christians suffer. Gen. 3: D. Unhealthy enchantment with suffering. E. Unreasonable fear of suffering. II. What The Bible Teaches About Suffering. A. Christians are to expect suffering. John 15:18-21; I John 3:13; John 17:14. B. Suffering can be the will of God for us. I Pet. 4:16; 2:21. C. Suffering in the life of the child of God has a purpose. I Pet. 1:6,7; II Cor. 12:7-10. D. We should suffer for righteousness sake. Matt. 5:10; I Pet. 4:15. E. God blesses right suffering. Matt. 5:10-12; Luke 6:22,23. F. Suffering causes us to look to heaven. Rom. 8:16-18; Col. 3:1-3. G. We should not be ashamed or embarrassed about suffering. I Pet. 4:16; Heb. 13:12,13. H. We must follow the example of Christ. I Pet. 2: I. We must react under suffering as the Lord did. Matt. 5:38-48; Rom. 12:14,17-21; I Pet. 2: J. We can have the victory. John 16:33. III. Prepare For Suffering. A. Understand it to be normal. I Pet. 4:12; Phil. 1:29. B. Know the teaching of the Word of God. Phil 3:10; Rom. 6:3-5; John 8:31,32. C. Abide in Christ. John 15:4. D. Submit daily to the Holy Spirit. Eph. 5:18; 4:30. E. Rest in the will of God. Eph. 5:17; Heb. 4:1,9-11; 12:15. F. Edify your brethren when you and they are suffering. Col. 3:16,17; Eph. 5:19-21.

6 WAYS ATTACK MAY COME TO CHURCHES I. The Focus Of Persecution. John 15:18-21; Col. 1:27b. The attack has been and always will be against our Lord. II. The Language Of The Overcomer. A. The rallying words of a conqueror - overcome. Rev. 2:7,11,17,26; 3:5,12,21. B. The secret of overcoming. Rev. 12: By the blood of the Lamb. Rev. 12:11a. (Note study on importance of the blood.) a. Peace with God b. Peace with our conscience. c. Power in the life. d. This weapon is lost: (1.) By liberal theology - no blood. (2.) By liberation theology - no cross. (3.) By burdenless preaching - no power. 2. By the word of their testimony. Rev. 12:11b. a. Satan attempts to rob us of the victory by causing us to not open our mouth or causing us to lose our testimony and credibility. b. There is the internal enemy also. (1.) Division within congregations. (2.) Fear. (3.) Unbelief. (4.) Lack of love. (5.) Sidetracked on issues, etc., rather than focusing on people and souls. c. Lack of care of our families. d. Plans and projects that are not the will of God. e. Anything that would put our life out of balance. 3. They loved not their lives unto the death. Rev. 12:11c. a. Compromise is not in the vocabulary. b. Examples of Christians who have suffered. c. Not only the physical life is involved. (1.) It may be necessary to die to ambitions, position, and rights. (2.) Self-judgement is necessary. I Peter 4:17,18. III. The Order Of Persecution. Persecution is not some kind of a blanket or exact, detailed thing in every country, be it communistic, religious or some other totalitarian government. There are some general signs however when persecution may be about to begin. A. Limitations in evangelism. 1. Christians are not given permission to travel or choose their employment. 2. All Christian programs are eliminated from radio and TV. 3. Any religious meetings outside of church buildings are prohibited.

7 4. Permission must be secured for the times of worship. No meeting together except at those specified times. 5. Government infiltrators or spies are present in all services. B. The importation of Bibles and Christian literature is prohibited. 1. Such printed material is considered non-essential. 2. There are situations where the Bible was placed in the same category as pornographic material. C. Foreign missionaries are expelled from the country. 1. By laws limiting clergy to local nationals. 2. By laws prohibiting foreigners to work in the country. In others, one can only be a tourist with limited stay or travel only in certain specified areas. 3. By direct threats and violence against foreigners. D. Christian leaders are threatened and severely discriminated against. 1. Mail is censored and pastors are limited in the subjects they can preach. a. Tax exempt status will be taken from the churches if anything political is even mentioned from the pulpits. b. Pastors are kept in line by threats of the seizing of their children by the government. 2. Pastors are not allowed to devote all their time to the ministry. a. They must become productive members of the society. b. This means that they must become bi-vocational. c. They may be assigned to such jobs that take all their strength and time. 3. Pastors are not allowed to visit their members or to distribute gospel literature 4. Churches are not allowed to have typewriters, computers or printing equipment. 5. Pastors may be manipulated by scare tactics. a. They may be summoned for questioning. b. They may be forced to attend certain government indoctrination classes. c. Special tempting offers may be made to them as coercion or seduction. (1.) This may be in the form of special privileges. (2.) It may be in the form of admission of their children into college or to other vocations rather than those to which Christians are limited. d. They may be harassed by middle of the night house searches. e. Their services may be invaded by a number of government goons. 6. Pastors may be assigned to work in some remote and distant place in the country. a. The purpose is to isolate them from their people and other Christians. b. They may be given very demeaning and humiliating jobs. 7. Pastors are arrested and re-educated. a. This can include torture. b. They may be put to open shame. c. False accusation and untrue testimony given against them. E. Churches are forced to register. 1. All church leaders must be approved by the state. 2. All sermons must be written out and reviewed by certain individuals or departments before they can be delivered. 3. Statements must be signed before they are allowed to preach. a. Example: That they will not mention the government in their sermons. b. Example: No attempt will be made to evangelized the unsaved. F. Denominations are forced to unite.

8 1. The number of denominations is limited. 2. All come under the control of a national ecumenical council. 3. A totally national church is created. G. Educational and vocational opportunities for Christians are limited. 1. Only members of certain youth groups are allowed to attend university. 2. No Christian can be a doctor, lawyer, professor or social worker. 3. Christians have no choice in their vocation or employment. H. Religious education of all under 18 is prohibited. 1. No home schooling is allowed. 2. Christian young people are forced to attend special education classes on atheism, evolution, sex education and alternate lifestyles. 3. Parents that violate the law are subject to the loss of their children. I. Christians are prohibited from giving aid to each other. 1. When one member of a family is arrested, the family loses certain rights or privileges. a. This may include the right to medical care, housing or food. b. He family is isolated by not being allowed to fraternize with fellow believers or even other extended family members. J. Churches are closed. 1. Buildings are converted to other uses. 2. Christians are assigned to remote or other areas so as to isolate them. 3. Christians are forbidden to have contact with other believers. IV. Many Christians Firmly Believe That It Will Never Happen To Them. A. For some reason they believe themselves exempt. B. The rapture of believers is certain but we have no right to believe that God will excuse us from persecution. V. Present Lessons For Believers. A. Pray as never before for our nation and its leaders. I Tim. 2:1-4; Rom. 13:1-7. B. Determine to be a conqueror. Rev. 12:11.

9 GREAT AND PRECIOUS PROMISES WHY ARE THEY SO? I. Because Of Their Source. A. Precious because it is God that makes them. 1. There is no variation in God. James 1: God cannot lie. Titus 1:2. 3. God s Word is sure. I Pet. 1:23-25; Matt. 24:35; Num. 23:19; I Kings 8:56; Matt. 5: All the attributes of God depend on the fulfillment and completion of His Word and His promises. II. Because Of Their Superiority. God s promises are not only great but are exceedingly great. God s perfection is reflected in all that He does. God is perfect and complete and consequently, so are all His promises. A. God not only promises life but eternal, abundant life. John 10:10. B. God not only promises redemption but eternal redemption. Heb. 9:12. C. God not only promises joy but fullness of joy. John 15:11; I Pet. 1:8. D. God not only promises peace but perfect peace - peace that passes all understanding. Isaiah 26:3; Phil. 4:7. E. God not only promises pardon but promises to remember our sins no more. Jer. 31:34. F. God not only promises heaven but heaven with Him. John 14:1-3; I Thess. 4:17. G. God not only promises grace but sufficient grace. II Cor. 12:9. III. Because Of Their Sufficiency. The promises of God cover every possibility that could be presented in the Christian life What is your need? A. Food - Ps. 34:10 B. Clothing - Matt. 6:25, C. Temporal necessities - Matt. 6:33. D. Guidance - Ps. 73:24; Isaiah 30:21. E. Wisdom - Prov. 16:3; James 1:5. F. Rest - Matt. 11:28; John 6:37. G. Pardon and Forgiveness - Isaiah 55:7; Acts 13:38. H. Salvation - Rom. 10:9,13. I. Security - John 10: J. Anxiety in old age - Isaiah 46:4. K. Lack of sleep - Prov. 3:24. L. Freedom from worry - Ps. 50:15; 55:22. (And do not forget - Matt. 7:11; Ezra 8:22; Ps. 145:18.)

10 IV. Because Of Their Simplicity. God s promises are great and precious because they are simple and literal. A. Easy to find. The way of life is so covered with the promises of God that it is impossible to take one step without finding one of them. John Bunyan. B. Easy to understand. Isaiah 35:8. C. Easy to appropriate. There is grace for those who recognize their need and cry out to the Lord. II Cor. 9:8; Mark 9:24; John 11:40. D. Easy to prove. Matt. 7:7-11. Have you ever proven the Lord. E. Easy to learn and remember. Matt. 11:28-30; I John 5:3. Are you appropriating the promises of God?

11 THE SPIRITUAL NATURE OF OUR BATTLE Eph. 6:12; II Cor. 10:3,4 The victory is ours through Christ. Rom. 8:32,37; I Cor. 15:57. It is true that there will be many battles, apparent defeats, set-backs, closed doors, spiritual failure and yes, deaths. Get the whole picture. Do not be taken up too much with individual or isolated events. I. God Is Still Sovereign And In Control. Isaiah 40:15; Dan. 2:20-22; 4:35; Job 12:14-23; Ps. 75:6,7; Jerm. 27:5; Prov. 1:24-31; Ps. 76:10; 62:11; Heb. 13:8. II. God Has Never Ever Failed In His Promises. II Cor. 1:20; II Pet. 1:4. There are over seven thousand promises in the Bible - one for ever need of the believer. Joshua 21:45; 23:14; I Kings 8:56; Heb. 6:13-18; Acts 7:5; II Pet. 3:9. Related promises. Heb. 2:3; Isaiah 30:18; Ps. 34:8; Prov. 16:20; Jerm. 17:7,8. III. Victory Is Assured Because Of The Lord s Mandates. With each commandment that the Lord gives, He gives sufficient grace to fulfill or carry it out to completion. II Cor. 9:8; Eph. 3:20; II Cor. 12:9. To the obedient church, the Lord has promised: A. His power - Authority - Matt. 28:18. B. His presence - Matt. 28:20. C. His provision - Phil. 4: IV. Victory Is Also Based In The Lord s Coming. II Thess. 2:8 In Glory with His own. Rev. 1:5-8; 19:11-16; Phil. 2:9-11; Eph. 1:19-22; Matt. 16:18; Isaiah 11:3-5; Job 4:3-9; Ps. 91: It Is True! Do You Believe?

12 SOME POSSIBLE FORMS THAT PERSECUTION MAY TAKE I Peter 2:19-24 Suffering is a part of the life of every true believer. There are at least 33 possible ways that one may suffer. 1. For righteousness sake. Matt. 5:10; I Pet. 3: By slander (evil report) Jerm. 20:10; Ps. 31:13; Job 19:19; Ps. 41:9; 55:12-14; II Tim. 3:3; Luke 6: Shame. Prov. 25:8; open embarrassment, dishonor or disgrace. Manner in which our Lord was accused of being conceived, born out-of-wedlock; also, manner in which His nakedness was openly displayed on the cross. Heb. 13:13; 11: Falsely accused. Ps. 35:11; 27:12; Matt. 5:11; Acts 26:2,7; (Luke 23:2,5,10; Mark 14:55-60); Acts 16:19-23; 6: Ensnare through deceit, trapping, tricks, seeking ways to accuse. Dan. 6:4,5; Luke 11:54; Matt. 10: Object of conspiracy. II Sam. 15:12; Gen. 37:18; II Cor. 11:32; Acts 9: Mocked - Ps. 42:3 - to scorn, to scoff, to sneer, to make a play of. Job 12:4; Matt. 27:29,31,41; Acts 2:13; 17:32; 17:18; Heb. 11: Betrayed - treated treacherously. Matt. 24:10; Luke 21: Despised - to have contempt for, to loathe, to think nothing of, to consider without honor. Luke 10:10; I Cor. 1:28; I Cor. 4:10c. 10. Hated by family. Matt. 10:21,34-36; (Micah 7:6) Luke 21: Hated by men. Luke 21:17; Matt. 10: Defamation of character, libel, slander, evil report. Jer. 20:10; Ps. 31:13; Job 19:19; I Pet. 2:12; I Cor. 4: Feared by own people. Acts 9: Subject to special trials. I Cor. 4:9-14; II Cor. 11: Imprisoned. Luke 21:12; Acts 4:3; 5:18; 12:4; 16:24; II Cor. 11:23c; Heb 11:36b; II Cor. 6: Beaten. Acts 5:40; 16:23; II Cor. 11:24; Matt 10:17; II Cor. 6: Contradicting. Acts 13: Stir against. Acts 6:12; 13:50; 14:2, 19; 19:23,25,26,29; 21: Press charges before authorities. Acts 18:12; Matt. 10:17, Threatened. Acts 4:18,21; 5: Stoned. Acts 7:58,59; 14:19; II Cor. 11:25; Heb. 11: Afflictions. II Tim. 3;11; Ps. 34: Expulsion. Acts 13:50; John 16:2a. 24. Vex. Acts 12: Exhaustion, extreme fatigue. II Cor. 11: Hunger and thirst. II Cor. 11:27; I Cor. 4: Spectacle. I Cor. 4:9 (Acts 9:16;20:23; 21:11) Heb. 10:33a. 28. Suffer physical need. I Cor. 4:11; Phil. 4:12; Heb. 11:37; II Cor. 6: Severe workload - hard labor. I Cor. 4:12; II Cor. 11:23; I Thess. 2: Martyrdom. Luke 21:16; Acts 7:59; 12:2; John 16:2.

13 31. Afflictions. II Tim. 1:8; II Tim. 4:5; Heb. 11:37; Matt. 24:9a; Ps. 34:19; II Cor. 2:4; 4:17; II Cor. 6:4; Heb. 10:32,33; Col. 1:24; I Thess. 1:6; 3,7; Heb. 11:25; James 5: Poverty. II Cor. 6:10; Phil. 4: Loss of property and material goods. Heb. 10:34b.

14 SOME ABSOLUTE NECESSITIES FOR OVERCOMING THROUGH PERSECUTION I. Select and Disciple Spiritual Leaders According To The New Testament. Acts 14:22; Titus 1:5. A. New Testament leaders were not proud because of their position. I Tim. 3:6. B. New Testament leaders were true servants. I Pet. 5:3; John 13: C. New Testament leaders identified with the peoples. D. New Testament leaders were men of integrity and honesty, recognized - not just by Christians - but by all. E. New Testament leaders possessed special valor and courage that enabled them to remain true. II. Take Time To Disciple. II Tim. 2:2. A. Select a limited number of God-chosen people to disciple. Luke 6:12. B. Spend time with your disciples. Mark 3:14. C. Teach them by example. I Cor. 4:15; Phil. 4:9; John 15:15. D. Give simple, clear instructions. Acts 20:27. E. Inspect assignments. F. Teach them accountability and build character. I Tim. 4: G. Intercede for them specifically by name daily. Eph. 1:16; Phil. 1:4; Col. 1:3. III. Our Families Must Be Protected. A. Make sure that each member is saved and that Christ is Lord. Col. 1:9-13; II Cor. 13:5; Rom. 8:1-14. B. Prepare each of our children for the storm clouds that will come upon them. Deut. 6:4-9; 20-25; 11:18-21; Prov. 6:20-24; Deut. 30:2; Gen. 18:17-19; Josh. 24:15. C. Stockpile Scriptures and Christian material to have always accessible to the family. D. Never forget to share with the less fortunate. Rom. 13:8; 12:9-18; I Cor. 16:1; Acts 20:35; Rom 15:1; Eph. 4:28; Gal. 6:2. IV. Look For Alternative Ways And Methods To Carry On And Continue Witnessing For Christ. Matt. 16:18. A. Keep the youth active, involved and alive. B. Learn everything possible about others suffering and visit them. Heb. 13:3. C. Show genuine love by caring for all - especially in times of need. (Example: food, care, sharing during times of illness, special need, deaths.) Matt. 25:35-40; 5:43-45; James 1:27; II Tim. 1:16-18; Rom. 12:20. D. Guard against all bitterness. Rom. 12:14,17,19,21; Matt. 5: E. Do not repay evil with evil. Matt. 5:44; Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60; I Cor. 4:11-13; I Pet. 2:23. F. Pray for your enemies. Matt. 5:44.

15 THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY I. God Is The Author And Founder Of The Home. Gen. 2:18:20-25; Matt. 19:4-6; Eph. 5:31. II. God Instituted The Family As The Very First Human Institution. A. It is still God s chosen basic social entity for the welfare of a society. Deut. 11: B. Repeatedly God has emphasized its importance through out the Scriptures. Ex. 20:14; Jerm. 35:1-19; Eph. 5: III. IV. The New Testament Continues With The Old Testament Guidelines For The Family And Even Emphasizes Them Stronger. Mark 10:2-9; Rom. 7:2,3; Luke 16:18; I Cor. 7: Marriage And The Family Is A Gift From God And Is For The Welfare Of All. A. For man s happiness. Gen. 2:18. B.` For the continuance of the race. Gen. 1:28. C. For the assurance of Godly seed. Mal. 2:14,15. D. For the prevention of fornication. I Cor. 7:2,9. E. For complete satisfaction. Prov. 5:19; I Tim. 2:15; 5:14. V. There Are Many Modern Day Attacks Against The Family. A. Economic pressures. B. Immorality. C. Television and Hollywood. D. New Age and Humanistic Philosophies. VI. In Order To Survive, Christian Families Must Be Students Of The Word Of God and Doers As Well. A. The family must be able to function as if they were a church. 1. Evangelizing. 2. Teaching. 3. Fellowshipping. 4. Worshiping. VI. Carefully Evaluate And Ascertain What Will Be Necessary To Implement In Your Family To Bond, Strengthen And Prepare For All That May Come In The Future.

16 THE NIGHT COMETH, WHEN NO MAN CAN WORK John 9:4 Regardless of claims being made, there are still over 40 nations closed to the preaching of the Gospel. Other countries are in great danger of losing religious freedom and liberties. What about the souls in these countries. Jeremiah 8:20 is their cry and dilemma. We must work the works of Him while it is day. I. Considering The Words Of Christ. A. What can be meant by the word night. The absence of Christ somewhere or anywhere is equivalent to night. (Darkness - absence of light). 1. When a government opposes Christ, night is present. Matt. 14: When people oppose the Gospel and the cause of Christ, it is night:. Mark 5: When religion becomes inflamed with passion and rage and attacks God, it is night. Christ was crucified by religious Jews. Matt. 27: When sin is allowed in the believer s life, unconfessed and not forsaken, it is night. I John 1:5,6. 5. When Christ comes back for His own, eternal night will have arrived for many. Matt. 24:30,31. B. What can be meant by the word work. 1. Obedience to the will of God is to work the works of Him. John 9:4. 2. When we allow Christ to work in and through us - this is to work the works of Him. Matt. 5:15,16. II. How Is The Night Coming When No One Can Work? A. The powers of darkness are working to bring darkness into the world and more specifically to certain areas. Their Goal is: One world government, secular humanism, new age, communism traditional religions, false cults, modernism, liberalism, amorality and perversion. Eph. 5:11; 6:12. B. Satan sows seeds of darkness in hearts, churches and society. Matt. 13: C. Christ prophesied that darkness would come (night follows day) and there would be limitations placed on the work of the Lord. I Thess. 5:4-6. III. Why Would The Night Come When No One Will Be Able To Work? A. It is a natural law that night comes after the day. B. We live in a vast field of wickedness and the Bible reveals that evil will grow worse and worse. II Tim. 3:13. C. Diminished light and cold, weak Christians will not affect this world. Matt. 6:22,23; 5:13-15; Rev. 3:15,16. D. During times of spiritual darkness sin is not seen as sin nor is error viewed as error. (Times of no absolutes and self and situational ethics reigning). II. Tim. 3:5,7-9; 4:3,4.

17 IV. What Must We Do? A. Take advantage of the light of the day. 1. We must enter while doors are open. (Must get the Gospel to the greatest number of people possible with the most effective means possible in the least possible time). 2. Discern the ripe fields of the world. (The Spirit of God prepares hearts in certain areas at special times). 3. Know open and tolerant areas and take advantage of preparation for the Gospel by certain circumstances. (Example: Paul going to synagogues first in each city and building on their understanding of God and the Scriptures. Acts 13:5,14,15: 17:1-3; 18:2,4; 19:8). 4. Beat the cults and isms to fields yet virgin. B. Do not substitute the Pure Gospel with social gospel, traditionalism cultural Christianity, churchanity, professionalism, Hollywoodism, church buildings, liberation theology or artificial trappings. C. It is time to act! (African Proverbs: Run while the sun is hot ). 1. Let us give ourselves to fasting and prayer, truly seeking the Lord. Prov. 8:17; Isaiah 55:6,7; Ps. 32:6,7. 2. We must sanctify ourselves and renounce all known sin. Isaiah 1:16,17; Jerm. 4:14; Rom. 12:9; John 17: Walk in the Spirit and win souls. Rom. 13:13; Gal. 5:25; Eph. 4:1; 5:15; Col. 1:10; Phil. 2:15,16.

18 TURNING TRIALS INTO TRIUMPHS James 1:2-12 Popular preaching and teaching proclaims that the Christina life is without problems. However, looking at it Biblically, one finds that God is the author of strange ministries. Through these ministries God intends that the believer get the best out of the worst. Blessings may come as Kings appearing as beggars; as Princes dressed as paupers. Blessings can be wrapped in the rags of a curse. Sorrow is a disguise that real joy wears. Through trials, affliction and suffering God desires to accomplish something otherwise not possible in our lives. God never wastes time and never wastes experiences - if we will but respond correctly. God is the Sovereign God of Providence. God wills it and, except it be because of sin and chastisement, the Christian must consider trials and suffering as natural and normal. The difference in being happy or being unhappy is not the absence of trouble and problems. The difference lies in what you do with it. TWO WAYS TO REACT 1. God s way - accomplishes many things for good. 2. World s way - reaction of carnality and the old nature is to question, doubt and complain which results in resentment, bitterness and premature death. Recognize That Circumstances Are Not Just Chance: God Is In Control 1. They are of God. 2. They are good. GOD WILLS THAT: 1. Trials be turned to triumph, 2. Victims become victors, 3. Crosses become crowns, 4. Suffering is to become glory, 5. Battle is to be the means of victory. James 1:2 - Count 1:3 - Know 1:4,9 - Let 1:5,6 - Ask Four Essentials For Victory Over Trials 1. Joyful attitude - v.2 2. An Understanding mind - v.3 3. A Surrendered will - v A heart that wants to Believe. V I. Count It All Joy. James 1:2 - A Joyful Attitude.

19 A. Outlook determines outcome attitude will determine action. B. Trials are to be expected. v. 2; I Pet. 4:12. C. When ye fall into divers temptations. v. 2b. Various and varicolored. (Example: Like variegated yarn weaver uses to make rugs, blankets or serapes. Look at it from below - seems to be no pattern, only loose ends, rough, nothing visible to appreciate. Look from above - the intended side to be viewed, the pattern, design, beauty and purpose is seen.) So God arranges and blends experiences and happenings in our lives so that faith may be exercised and grow. D. Values determine evaluations. 1. If you value comfort more than character, trials will not be allowed to accomplish the purpose of God. 2. If you value the material and physical more than spiritual, one will be most miserable during testings. 3. If you live for the present, rather than the future, trials will produce bitterness rather than betterment. II. Know. James 1:3. An Understanding Mind. A. Faith is always tested. If not being tested, maybe it is a sign that there has never been saving faith. B. God tested Abraham in order to bless and to increase his faith through exercise. 1. God tests to bring out the best. 2. Satan tests and tempts to bring out the worst. C. Testing works for us - not against us. Rom. 8:28. D. Trials rightly used help us to mature. Rom. 5:3,4. 1. Purpose, patience, endurance, preparation, perseverance, enablement (Get up, get started, continue, keep on going, finish the race). 2. Patience is not a passive, fatalistic acceptance of circumstances. It is courageous perseverance in the face of suffering and difficulty. 3. Impatience and unbelief always go together. Heb. 6:12; 10:36; Is. 28:16. III. Let. James 1:4 A Surrendered Will. God cannot work in us without our consent. If we encounter trials without surrendered wills, we will behave as spoiled, rotten, selfish, self-centered, immature children. IV. Ask. James 1:5,6 A Heart That Wants To Believe. A. What should we pray for? WISDOM (Why not grace or strength?) B. Knowledge is the ability to take things apart; wisdom the ability to put them together again. C. Wisdom is the right use of knowledge. D. We need wisdom so we will not waste the opportunities God gives for our good, for our growth and for His glory. E. God allows things to come to build us up. Satan use things to tear us down. F. What will our reaction be? 1. God s way or the way of the old nature. 2. Destruction, devastation, deviousness, detour - vs. exercise, edification, enablement, exaltation.

20 G. Three kinds of faith is found in James Epistle. 1. Dead faith - only has to do with intellect. 2. Demonic faith - has to do with emotions. 3. Dynamic faith - reaches the will. H. Real faith will be seen. 1. Mind understands the truth. 2. Heart will desire and respond to the truth. 3. Will will act upon the truth.

21 A CURE FOR DOUBT AND WORRY Phil. 4:7; Gal. 3:23; I Pet. 1:5 1. Let the Peace of God be as an over flowing fountain or spring in you heart and life. Phil 4:7. 2. Renounce all doubt and worry. Phil. 4:6; James 4:7. 3. Guard your thoughts; think on the pure and correct. Phil. 4:8. 4. Focus your mind and eyes on the Lord and the things of God. Is. 26:3; Col. 3:1-3; Matt. 6: Use supernatural weapons in all supernatural warfare. II Cor. 10: Put on all the Armor of God. Eph. 6: Have faith! Matt. 6:25-34; 7:7-11; 17:20; 21:22; Mark 11: Walk in the Spirit. Gal. 5:16-26; Rom. 6:14-23; 8: Keep your confidence only in God. Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 6:11,12; 10:19-23, Cast all care or concern on the Lord. I Pet. 5:7.

22 REWARDS FOR CHRISTIAN SUFFERING I Peter 4:13 1. Glory in Heaven. II Cor. 4:17, 18; I Peter 5:1, 10, Eternal Consolation. II Cor. 1:7; Rom. 8: Christ is Made Known. II Cor. 4: Life is Being Given to Others. II Cor. 4: Grace of God is Being Made Manifest. II Cor. 4: A Guarantee That God Will Judge Righteously. II Thess. 1:4, Will Reign With him. II Tim. 2:12a. 8. Spirit of Glory Rests Upon. I Peter 4: Glory is Brought to God. I Peter 4: Reason For Joy. I Peter 4:13, 14.

23 7 FOLD EXAMPLE OF CHRIST IN SUFFERING I Peter 2:21-24; 3: Sufferings. v. 21; Matt. 16:24; I John 2:6. 2. Sinlessness. v. 22; Isaiah 53:9. 3. Guilelessness. v. 22; Deceit. 4. Love When Being Mocked. v. 23; Isaiah 53:7; Rom. 12:14; Matt. 5:44-48; (James 1:2-4; Rom. 5:3) 5. Patience in Threatenings. v. 23; Rom. 12:12; Luke 21: Resignation to God. v. 23; Luke 23:46; I Pet. 4:19. - Committed His Cause; Trusted it to God. 7. Righteousness. v. 24; - Just, Unbiased, Impartial.

24 A CREED FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED I asked God for strength, that I might achieve. I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey I asked for health, that I might do great things. I was given infirmity that I might do better things I asked for riches, that I might be happy. I was given poverty, that I might be wise I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men. I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life. I was given life, that I might enjoy all things. I got nothing for which I asked forbut everything for which I had hoped. Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. I am, among men, most richly blessed! Selected

25 BEHOLD YOUR GOD Isaiah 40:1,2,9 Text V. 9 The book of Isaiah is the Bible in miniature. It is comprised of 66 chapters; the Bible is make up of 66 books. The book of Isaiah is divided into two divisions; the Bible is made up of the Old Testament and the New Testament. The first division of the book of Isaiah contains 39 chapters; the Old Testament contains 39 books. The second division of Isaiah contains 27 chapters; the New Testament contains 27 books. Thirty nine chapters of Isaiah warn Judea of impending judgment. Twenty-seven chapters of Isaiah speak of captivity under foreign powers used by God in His soverign plan. Isaiah s ministry extended over a period of 60 years and was under the reign of 4 kings. (Isaiah 1:1) He died under the reign of Manases and was killed by being placed in the hollow trunk of a tree and was sawed asunder. The messages recorded in his book may represent only a part of his writings as mentioned in II Chronicles 26:22. Coming judgment prophesied the destruction of Jerusalem and the fall of the throne of David. On the other hand, the Messianic hope is dominant throughout the entire book. Portrayed as the suffering servant and the ruler of the restored kingdom of absolute, perfect peace and righteousness, the Messiah is presented as the one in whom all people may trust. Chapter forty is placed to prepare for suffering, as well as to counsel, to console and to inspire. I. A Magnificent Shepherd. Isaiah 40: God appears as a Shepherd. Luke 12:32 My little flock. Picture of compassion, warmth, and love. A. A loving shepherd. John 10:11,12. B. A caring shepherd. Ps. 23:1; I Pet. 5:7. C. A guiding shepherd. John 10:3,4; Ps. 78:52,53. D. A sustaining shepherd. Ezek. 34:14,15. Our shepherd has not changed - can do all that He has promised - and more. II. A Marvelous Creator. Isaiah 40:12; 46:5,9,01; 48:12,13,14. A. All the waters are as a drop in the Hand of God. Seventy per cent of earth s surface is water. Nothing compared to the hand of God. B. The Greatness of God cannot be measured. Isaiah 46:5,9,10. C. It is the same God that measured the heavens and formed the mountains. Isaiah 48:12-1`4; 40: III. A Great Soverign. Isaiah 40:15-17, 23,24. A. The nations are no more than a drop of water on a bucket. Isaiah 40:15. B. Governments are in the hand of God to accomplish His purposes. Isaiah 40:17,23,24 (Are as fragile as hay, fodder and leaves). C. The woods of Lebanon are not sufficient to make a sacrifice or burnt offering to the True and Living God. Dan. 2:20-23.

26 IV. An Incomparable Sustainer. Isaiah 40:18-22; A. Those with money have a golden image made - and a chain to secure it. Isaiah 40:19. B. The poor have a wooden image made with a platform that secures it. Isaiah 40:20. (What god is it that can be stolen or broken?) (Our God is immutable - does not change or vacillate. James 1:17; Num. 23: C. The universe cannot contain God. Isaiah 40:21,22. (Can your god be put in your pocket? Can your god be left at home? Can your god be stolen or burned or die?) D. God has unlimited wisdom Isaiah 40:28. E. God has the power to sustain miraculously. Isaiah 40:29,30. F. God promises continual renewal of strength, courage and fortitude. IV. A Majestic Savior. Isaiah 40;2; 44:6; 47:4; Jerm. 50:23,24. A. All the eternal purpose of God is focused in and upon the Lord Jesus Christ. B. Every thought, act of obedience and the ministry of the angels is concentrated in Christ. C. All the hate, strategy and wiles of astuteness converges against Christ. D. Every human hope is in Christ. E. All human occupation should be toward Christ. F. In the creation, the entire material universe is centralized in Christ. G. The written Word of God is a Christ centered book. H. The Jehovah of the Old Testament is the Lord Jesus Christ of the New Testament.

27 AN EXCELLENT SPIRIT (Only men called such never faltered never fell into sin) Daniel 6:3; 5:12 (Prov. 17:27) Background of Daniel s life. Taken from family, home, land and country to a foreign land, foreign culture, name changed over, 70 years - under 3 pagan kings - Preferred above the presidents and princes. 1. Problems Did Not Make Him Bitter. If anyone had an excuse to gripe, complain - was not a cry baby - was not on a continual pity party. Man is born to trouble - Job 14:1,2; Ecc. 2: Was Not Negative Nor An Eternal Pessimist. Was power conscious - was not problem conscious - was promise conscious. Did not enlarge on dark side or negative. How we react under adverse circumstances does determine outcome - How does trials of life affect you? (Ball of baked clay - wax - rubber ball - hammer.) 3. Others Recognize God In His Life. 4:9; 5:11. A candlestick shines brightest when it is the darkest. Spirit - eternal - given by God internal - the heart - source of - fountain - eternal -visible, that which others see. How is it possible to have a more excellent spirit. 1. Trusting Attitude - Rom. 8:28; Like Joseph - you meant it for evil - God meant for good. 2. Positive Attitude - Phil. 4:13; II Cor. 9:8; Eph. 3: Thankful Attitude - Phil. 4:8; James 1:2-4; Changed kings -changes empires - His Spirit commanded attention. 5. Determined Attitude - Dan. 1:8; Such a spirit is not an accident. Does not just wake up with such a Spirit one day. 6. Servant Attitude - God had put him there, recognized sovereignty of God -m authority was in power by hand of God, was not necessary to submit. Served on Godly men - thus was elevated. Did not compromise. Phil. 2:5-8; Matt. 20; Tested Attitude - Dan. 6:4,5. After every great blessing - great testing. Neither was there any error or fault found in him. 6:4, He Was Faithful! Only could set a trap - subtle - sneaking - twisted. God did not fail him in that hour. Josh. 21:45; I Kings 8:56; Heb. 13:5,6.

28 CHRISTIAN SUFFERINGS I Peter 4:16 1. Persecutions for Righteousness. Matt. 5:10; 13:21; Mark 10:30; John 15: Revilings and Slander. Matt. 5:11, 12; 10:25; Acts 13:45; I Pet. 4:4. 3. False Accusations. Matt. 10: Scourgings for Christ. Matt. 10: Rejection by Men. Matt. 10: Hatred by the World. Matt. 10:22; John 15: Hatred by relatives. Matt. 10: Martyrdoms. Matt. 10:28; Acts 7: Temptations. Luke 8:13; James 1: Shame for His Name. Acts 5: Imprisonments. Acts 4:3; 5:18; 12: Tribulations. Acts. 14:22; II Thess. 1: Stonings. Acts 14:19; II Cor. 11: Beatings. Acts 16:23; II Cor. 11:24, Being a Spectacle to Men. I Cor. 4: Misunderstandings, Necessities, Defamation and Despisings. I Cor. 4: Troubles, Afflictions, Distresses, Tumults, Labors, Watchings, Fastings and Evil Reports. II Cor. 6:8-11; 6: Reproaches. Heb. 13:13; I Pet. 4: Trials. I Pet. 1:7; 4: Satanic Opposition. Eph. 4:27; 6:12; Phil. 1: Groanings and Travailings Because of the Curse. Rom. 8:17-26.

29 Some Lessons On Preparation For Persecution Counsel to Servants and Slaves Biblical Admonition to Employees and Workers Ephesians 6:5-8; Colossians 3: Obey Master In Everything. Eph. 6:5; Col. 3: Responsible - With Fear and Trembling. Eph. 6:5; Col. 3:22 In all things - fearing God (Not choosing our likes or dislikes; not choosing to do pleasant things and rejecting unpleasant things.) 3. Not Serving To Be Seen. Eph. 6:6a; Col. 3:22c. 4. Doing The Will Of God. Eph. 6:6c; Col. 3:22c. 5. From The Heart. Eph. 6:6d; Col. 3:22d. Whole-heartily. 6. With Good Will - Gladly and Joyfully. Eph. 6:7. 7. If Not Recognized By Men, Will Be Recognized By The Lord. Eph. 6:8; Col. 3:24,25. The Lord will reward. Gal. 6:7-9. Titus 2:9,10 1. Be Obedient To Master. Titus 2:9a. 2. Please Well In All Things. Titus 2:9b. 3. Not Answering Back. Titus 2:9c. Not contradicting; Not putting the other person in bad light. 4. Not Purloining. Titus 2:10a. Not stealing or defrauding; not robbing time nor quality of workmanship. 5. Showing Good Fidelity. Titus 2:10b. Faithful in all things, both large and small. Luke 16: Adorn The Doctrine. Titus 2:10c. Make attractive by good attitude. (An incorrect attitude will talk louder than verbal teaching-griping, complaining, murmuring.) I Peter 2: Be Subject. I Pet. 2:18a. Submit, accountable to, answerable to, dependent upon, responsible to, bound by, controlled by or under the control of, under the thumb of another. 2. With All Fear. I Pet. 2:18b. Having respect to or recognizing the position of another. 3. Suffer Wrongfully. I Pet. 2:19,20. With patience; not deliberate martyrdom or suffering. 4. Follow The Example Of Christ. I Pet. 2: Called to follow in the steps of Christ.

30 MY SPIRITUAL INVENTORY Remember His marvelous works that He hath done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth. I Chronicles 16:12. Take a few minutes to meditate on each point, then prayerfully ask the Lord what you should write down. THE PAST 1. List the greatest blessings from this past year: a. In your family: b. In your work: c. In your personal life: 2. What was the greatest trial and what have you learned from it? 3. List in order the best of your answers to prayer in the year gone by. a. b. c. d. 4. List any past happenings or circumstance you do not understand. Then read Deut. 29:29; Prov. 3:5,6; Ecc. 3: List a specific lesson the Lord taught you last year. What you are praying and studying now is what you are going to be for God.

31 IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN HERE 1. How did the people react to Noah s message? Matt. 24: What did Peter say when Jesus told him that He would suffer and die soon? Matt. 16:21, How did Jesus react to this? Matt. 16: What did Jesus say on another occasion about His coming suffering? Matt. 26:31 5. How did Peter react? Matt. 26: What happened when this actually took place? Matt. 26: Why did Peter deny his faith? 8. Was the situation unique in the case of Peter? 9. Can you quote other examples where people were faced with the same choice? From the Bible From somewhere in our world 10. What does I Thess. 5:3 say about people who believe nothing can disrupt their security? 11. Peter had to learn this in his own life with Christ. Explain something of this example. Matt. 14: By allowing himself to be led by circumstances, Lot made the wrong choice. A. What choice was this? Gen. 13:10,11. B. What was the result? Gen. 19:15-26.

32 C. Why did Lot never think about the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah? D. How did sons-in-law react? Gen. 19: What happened unexpectedly to the rich man in the parable told by Jesus? Luke 12: What promise does God give to those who live for Him and serve Him? Amos 3: What does the Lord say we must do in times of disaster and forth coming persecution? Luke 21:28.

33 BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES OF PERSECUTION 1. According to John 15:18-21, what is the reason for Christian persecution? 2. How were the disciples strengthened by Paul and Barnabas? Acts 14: Against whom was the persecution actually directed? Acts 9:4,5. 4. According to II Tim. 3:12, is persecution: (A.) unlikely? (B.) likely? (C.) inevitable? 5. Give some reasons why many Christians forsake Christ. Matt. 13:20, What does Christ expect from us in Matt. 16:24? A. B. C. 7. What does the Lord promise to those who are prepared to be persecuted? Matt. 5: A. B. C. 8. God s promises are almost always preceded by a condition. Example: Rev. 3:20. What is the condition? What is the promise? 9. Name at least three similar texts. 10. Which condition precedes the promise God gave to Israel in Deut. 11:22? A. B. C.

34 D. 11. When can we depend on God s promises for: A. Peace. Is. 26:3 B. Political stability? I Tim. 2: What should our attitude be towards those who persecute us? A. Matt. 5:44 B. Luke 23: What were Peter and John s reactions when they were beaten for their faith? Acts 5: What was the context of the disciples prayer when they were persecuted? Acts 4: What type of suffering is mentioned in Romans 8:35-39? 16. What does the Bible say about victory in Rom. 8:31-39? 17. Name at least three verses which indicate that all Christians will be persecuted. 18. Although strife and persecution will increase, victory is a certainty. Why? Do you have a proof verse or verses? 19. What must each Christian do to be able to overcome personally? Eph. 6: Which part of the armor is lacking most in your own personal life? 21. Would you like to bring about a change? Specify

35 22. In Rev. 12:11, three ways to overcome Satan are mentioned. What are they? A. B. C.

36 CHECK UP Do you have regular victory in: a. Your devotional life? Yes No b. Your attitudes? Yes No c. Control of tongue, anger? Yes No d. Doing God s will? Yes No e. Leading your children in devotions? Yes No f. Appetites of your body, eyes, etc.? Yes No

37 DOCTRINE OF PERSECUTION. CHURCH OF THE FUTURE? 1. What other name is the church of Christ known by? I Cor. 12:27; Eph. 1: What are the believers called by Peter in I Peter 2:9,10? 3. What ministries did Christ give to the church? Eph. 4: For what purpose? Eph. 4: How will the body grow and be joined together? Eph. 4:15, Does the future of a New Testament Church depend on the presence of a church building? Compare I Peter 2:5 and I Cor. 3: What does Heb. 10:24,25 say about the coming together of the church?. 8. Where did the churches of Priscilla and Aquila meet? Rom. 16: Was this an exception or did it happen at other places? Acts 12:12; Col. 4:15; Philemon Name advantages and disadvantages of house churches?. 11. Is this the path to follow in preparation for persecution?. 12. Where did Paul preach and teach? A. Acts 20:8.. B. Acts 17:1,2.. C. Acts 20:20.. D. Acts 17:17..

38 CHRISTIANS PERSECUTING CHRISTIANS Matt. 24:10 1. Where are we warned that persecution does not necessarily come from the outside, but from believers. Acts 20:29, What does Matt. 24:10 say about this?. 3. Who were, according to Stephen, the murderers of Christ? Acts 7:51, What is the reason for division and persecution? I Cor. 3:3, Differences can sometimes lead to discord and division. Describe this in connection with Acts 15: What was Paul s attitude toward John Mark later on? II Tim. 4: What did Christ pray for in respect to His Church? John 17: What advice did Paul give the church in Philippi to foster unity? Phil. 2:2-5..

39 SPIRITUAL OR CAPABLE LEADERS Each church has a tremendous need for spiritual leaders - people who are called by God to serve Him. This not only applies to ministers, but to all Christians, who are involved in a local church in any way. If God calls people, He is not interested in whether they have a title or not, nor if they have a position of leadership in the world. He looks for people who know that they cannot serve Him in their own strength, but only in the power of the Holy Spirit. I Cor. 2:1-5; II Cor. 4:1-5; I Cor. 1: What requirements does Peter propose in Acts 6:3 for the appointment of spiritual leaders?. 2. What qualities should bishops, pastors, or elders of a church possess? I Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1: Deacons? I Tim. 3: Is eloquence and intellectual ability an absolute requirement for office bearers? I Cor. 2: Why is it so important that spiritual leaders should be aware of their own weakness? Compare I Cor. 2:5 with Isaiah 42: How was the church of Sardis known? Rev. 3:1. By the people or by the Lord?. 7. What did the church of Laodicea think of herself? Rev. 3: What did Christ think of this church? Rev. 3:17b.. 9. Why did the Lord bless the church of Philadelphia? Rev. 3:7, The church of Smyrna was poor and weak. How did the Lord encourage this suffering church? Rev. 2:8,10.

40 . 11. Do spiritual leaders sometimes experience times of doubt and discouragement, or are they always positive and confident? Compare John 1:29 with Luke 7:

41 THE HOLY SPIRIT AND PERSECUTION 1. Why did God send the Holy Spirit? A. John 14:26.. B. John 16:8.. C. Rom. 8:16.. D. John 14: E. John 16: We read about the fruits of the Spirit in Gal. 5:22. Which fruit of the Spirit do you think you would require during times of persecution? Why?.. 3. Can persecution impede the work of the Holy Spirit? John 3:8. 4. Does persecution always come unexpectedly or does the Holy Spirit prepare us? Acts 20: What is God s commandment to His children regarding the Holy Spirit? Eph. 5: The Holy Spirit gives gifts to the church. Which gifts are described in Romans 12:6-8? 7. Does the Holy Spirit only give gifts to certain leaders in churches or to all church members? I Cor. 12:7, What part should each believer take when coming together for worship? I Cor. 14: If persecution comes, and the Bible is a forbidden book, and there is no one to lead the services, on whom then can we depend? A. I Cor. 12:7.. B. John 14:26.. C. John 16: What should our attitude be towards those who suffer for their faith? I Cor. 12:26..